Is Cats Safe?
Is Chinese Evergreen Safe for Cats?
No — Chinese Evergreen is toxic to cats.
Chinese Evergreen is listed as toxic to cats by ASPCA Animal Poison Control. The toxic component is Insoluble calcium oxalates. Cats metabolise many plant and chemical compounds poorly, so keep Chinese Evergreen away from your cat and treat any exposure seriously.
| Scientific name | Aglaonema modestum |
|---|---|
| Family | Araceae |
| Category | Plants |
| Toxic principle | Insoluble calcium oxalates |
Signs to watch for in cats
- Oral irritation
- Pain and swelling of mouth
- Tongue and lips
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting (not horses)
- Difficulty swallowing
If your cat may have been exposed to Chinese Evergreen:
- Don't wait for symptoms; don't induce vomiting unless a professional tells you to.
- Note what and how much, and take any packaging with you.
- Call your vet or a 24/7 line now — Pet Poison Helpline 855-764-7661 · ASPCA 888-426-4435.
Other Araceae plants
Plants in the same family (Araceae) are easily confused with Chinese Evergreen — check each one:
Cat-safe alternatives
Browse all Plants for cats · or check another item.
Frequently asked questions
Is Chinese Evergreen toxic to cats?
Yes. Chinese Evergreen is reported toxic to cats by ASPCA Animal Poison Control. Keep it away from your cat.
What are the symptoms if a cat is exposed to Chinese Evergreen?
Reported signs include: Oral irritation, Pain and swelling of mouth, Tongue and lips, Excessive drooling, Vomiting (not horses), Difficulty swallowing.
What makes Chinese Evergreen toxic to cats?
The harmful component reported for Chinese Evergreen is Insoluble calcium oxalates. Cats metabolise many such compounds poorly, so even small exposures can cause problems.
How much Chinese Evergreen is dangerous to cats?
There is no established "safe" amount — sensitivity varies by cat, and small exposures can still cause signs. Treat any exposure as potentially serious rather than waiting to see how much was involved.
What should I do if my cat ate Chinese Evergreen?
Contact your vet or a 24/7 animal poison line right away: Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435).